¡Feliz Navidad! Merry Christmas everyone! May you and your loved ones receive the best gifts in life: health, happiness and peace.
All the best,
Adam
Friday, December 25, 2015
Thursday, December 24, 2015
100 PERCENT Thursday December 24,2015
100 PERCENT
By Robert Press
Tis The Holiday Season
You would never know that Christmas Eve is today, as the temperature hit a record 70+ degrees. While Chanukah Menorahs and Christmas trees have been lit, and winter has begun not one real snowflake has fallen. Weather predictions are 'No snow until the New Year', and then maybe sometime in mid January if it is cold enough. What will this all mean comes opening day for the 2016 Baseball season? How many opening day games might be snowed out? Will it be to cold to play baseball? We will see the answer to those questions in a few short months. Maybe that is the good news for the New York Yankees.
As for politics, it is going to be cold days ahead for former New York State Assembly Speaker (and assemblyman) Sheldon Silver, and former New York State Senate Majority Leader (and state Senator) Dean Skelos as they await their respective sentencing dates after being convicted of corruption. There is speculation as to just who is next on the U.S. Attorney's hit list, and we will probably find out shortly after the sentencing of Silver and Skelos.
Locally, Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda and Public Advocate Leticia James have been able to hold off a 15 - 19 percent increase in common charges at the Parkchester South Condominium scheduled to take effect after Christmas. That is the increase has been postponed until sometime in February unless other means of income can be found for the Parkchester South Condominium.
An IDNYC 'Pop Up Site' has popped up at the Kingsbridge Library on West 231st Street in Kingsbridge. Councilman Andrew Cohen and Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz were on hand to show off their IDNYC cards. This PopUp Site opened on December 21st and will be at the Kingsbridge Library until January 15th. Check the posting on this blog titled Councilman Cohen Assemblyman Dinowitz and Commissioner in the archive section on the left for more information and a photo of Councilman Cohen, Assemblyman Dinowitz, Commissioner of the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs Sona Rai, and others.
There seems to be no stopping Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump as he can say whatever he wants to whomever he wants to, and does almost anything he wants to do. It kind of makes me think of Bronx State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. Is he a Democrat or Republican as Senator Diaz and Bronx Community Board #2 District Manager Rafael Salamanca hosted a political toy give away at I.S. 216. Why do I say it was a political event you may ask, and the reason ids that the third person who was named on the banner for the event was New York State Republican Party Chairman Ed Cox. It is a well known fact that State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. has worked with the Republican leadership in Albany, but it was a surprise to see Bronx Community Board #2 District Manager Rafael Salamanca so chummy with not only the state Republican Chairman Ed Cox, but also the Bronx County Republican Chairman Mr. John Greaney. I wonder what has happen to the Democrats only that Democratic candidates are suppose to run on, but then again Senator Diaz seems to be grooming Mr. Salamanca in his own image.
Speaking of State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr., the annual Diaz Christmas Party held at Maestro's last week was no disappointment. It may have been a little short of elected officials as in past years, but State Senator Diaz, Bronx County Leader Assemblyman Marcos Crespo, Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda, Councilwoman Vanessa Gibson, New Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark, 15th Congressional candidate and former Assemblyman Adam Powell, along with several district leaders were on hand as were the almost 500 people there.
Bronx Democratic County Leader Marcos Crespo made it a point to publicly announce that the Bronx Democratic County organization had held interviews of candidates for the soon to be vacant 17th City Council Seat currently held by Councilwoman Maria Del Carmen Arroyo. Councilwoman Arroyo announced in early November that she would be stepping down at the end of the year 2015 for personal reasons (still unknown). Bronx Democratic County Leader Marcos Crespo also announced that the choice of the Bronx Democratic County organization for the not yet vacant seat in the 17th City Council district was Mr. Rafael Salamanca the current District Manager of Bronx Community Board #2. I asked County Leader Marcos Crespo how interviews were done for a not yet vacant seat, and with still undeclared candidates. Crespo said the process was done with those interested candidates and the choice was made.
I will have much more on the upcoming special election for the not yet vacant 17th City Council seat in upcoming columns. I am being told that the possible pool of candidates is shrinking since the Bronx Democratic County organization has chosen Mr. Salamanca. It seems though that the MC of this event may have a smelly fish on his hands, as the 'Three Bears' in the pool are going to eat up and then spit out the Salmon in the pool. I will have more details next week in the print edition of the Bronx County News January 1st.
If you have any political information (especially about the 17th City Council special election) that you want to share or have checked out, any comments about this column or would like to have an event listed or covered in this column or on this blog, you can e-mail us at 100percentbronxnews@gmail.com or call 718-644-4199 Mr. Robert Press.
Happy Holidays from Assemblyman Sepulveda
Dear Friend,
I want to wish each of you and your families the most joyous holiday season and a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year. I look forward to seeing many of you at the various holiday events that occur during these busy weeks, before I head back to Albany for the legislative session that resumes in January.
As 2015 comes to a close, I think it is important to say thank you to all the volunteers and civic groups in our vibrant community who work tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for everyone in the 87th Assembly District and also for the Bronx and the city as a whole. It is an honor as your Assemblyman to work with you as your champion in the community and your voice in Albany.
May it come to pass that 2016 be a wonderful year for each of you, for our community, and for our country.
My staff and I are always pleased to be of assistance to you in whatever way we can. Call us at718-931-2620 or stop by my District Office at 1973 Westchester Avenue whenever we can help.
Again, I wish each of you and your loved ones a joyous and healthy holiday season and all great things for the New Year.
Your Assemblyman,
Luis R. Sepúlveda
Holiday Greetings from Borough President Diaz
WISHING YOU A HAPPY,
HEALTHY HOLIDAY &
A VERY WONDERFUL NEW YEAR
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December 10, 2015: Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. (L) is joined by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, as they prepare to light the Christmas tree in front of The Bronx County Building.
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Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Twenty Charged In Manhattan Federal Court With Narcotics Conspiracy In The Bronx
Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William J. Bratton, Commissioner of the of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), and Glenn Sorge, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), and the United States Marshals Service today announced further arrests in a federal indictment charging 20 defendants with allegedly participating in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine in the Bronx, New York, and charging six of those defendants with carrying guns as part of the conspiracy. Nineteen defendants are now in federal custody – five after having initially fled apprehension. One defendant remains at large. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman.
U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara stated: “Until these arrests, the flood of poisonous drugs that allegedly accompanied this conspiracy were a plague on the neighborhood these defendants dominated through intimidation and threats of violence. We thank the New York City Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security for their extraordinary efforts on this case, and the U.S. Marshals Service for their vital assistance in apprehending those fugitives who tried to escape justice.”
Commissioner William J. Bratton said: “The resolve of the NYPD and its law enforcement partners to stamp out illegal narcotic sales and its accompanying violence remains unfettered. I commend the work of the investigators and prosecutors involved in this case, whose dedication to protecting the residents of New York has resulted in these pivotal arrests.”
Acting Special Agent in Charge Glenn Sorge said: “The individuals arrested today wreaked havoc on the neighborhoods of the Bronx by selling crack cocaine to anyone who had the money, including young children. This operation embodies HSI’s commitment to partner with our federal and state authorities to rid our communities of these dangerous criminal organizations and the violence that comes with them.”
Michael Greco, the United States Marshal for the Southern District of New York stated: “The U.S. Marshals success in this operation was a direct result of interagency collaboration and tireless follow up with previous investigative efforts by HSI and NYPD. The swift apprehension of these dangerous fugitives is proof of the effectiveness and efficiency derived from federal and local law enforcement agencies working together.”
As alleged in the Indictment, United States v. Rayshawn Barnes, a/k/a “Twerk,” et al., S1 15 Cr. 288 (RMB)[1]:
Since at least 2013, the defendants conspired to distribute massive amounts of crack cocaine, as well as other drugs, in an area of the Bronx centered on Barnes Avenue and East 213th Street. The defendants often sold to children as young as middle school age, and controlled the area by the threat of violence. Many carried guns to make that threat real.
The NYPD and HSI used the full spectrum of law enforcement techniques to investigate this criminal conspiracy. Through covert surveillance, dozens of undercover purchases of narcotics, and court-authorized wiretaps of the conspirators’ phones, among other methods, law enforcement agents learned the structure and membership of the conspiracy, and amassed evidence of its crimes.
* * *
The defendants in United States v. Barnes, et al. face maximum terms of life in prison and mandatory minimum terms of at least 10 years in prison. The defendants charged with both narcotics conspiracy and gun possession face a mandatory minimum term of at least 15 years in prison.
The statutory maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencings of the defendants will be determined by the Court.
A chart containing the names of the defendants who were arrested, and the charges and maximum penalties they face, is attached.
Mr. Bharara praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Police Department’s Organized Crime Control Bureau Bronx Narcotics Major Case Unit, 47th Precinct Narcotics Module, 47th Precinct Detective Squad, and All Source Intelligence Collaboration Unit, the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Marshals for the Southern District of New York and the New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rachel Maimin, Micah Smith, Robert Allen, and Hagan Scotten are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Box Truck Crashes Into Henry Hudson Parkway Overpass
A Box Truck had to be pulled out from under the Riverdale Avenue overpass of the Henry Hudson Parkway Southbound direction. This tied up traffic for hours as only one lane was open at times until the truck which was to high to go below the parkway underpass. That is the reason signs are posted at all overpasses on the HHP, and the reason trucks are not allowed on the HHP. You can see in the photo above the damage to the top of the truck. In the foreground on the parkway south NYC DOT workers are cleaning up the debris on the parkway, and checking the overpass for any damage.
Below is a close up view of the extent of the damage to the box truck as the topp of the truck has been sheared off.
INDEPENDENT DEMOCRATIC CONFERENCE PUSHES FOR ERIN MERRYN'S LAW WITH NEW FEDERAL FUNDING BACKING PROGRAM
Every Student Succeeds Act will provide federal funding for student sexual abuse awareness and prevention - removing any barrier to passing Erin Merryn's law
State Senators Jeff Klein, and David Valesky, as well as members of the Independent Democratic Conference (IDC), joined Erin Merryn in applauding the Every Student Succeeds Act, signed into law by President Obama earlier this month, which includes federal funding for sexual abuse awareness and prevention programs for students, parents and guardians.
The federal legislation would provide funding to the State for the implementation of Erin Merryn’s Law (S.1947-A), legislation first introduced by members of the IDC in 2012, which would help protect children from sexual abuse by providing for age-appropriate awareness and education programs for students from kindergarten through grade eight. Despite the bill having passed the Senate every year since its introduction, it has yet to pass the Assembly.
Implementing an age-appropriate program for young students would give critically important information to victims – many of whom do not know there is a way out of their horrific situation.
“No child should ever have to suffer these kinds of horrible abuses in silence. Now, with the signing of the Every Student Succeeds Act, and federal funding for this program, we will be able to light the way for all of New York’s children. With Erin Merryn’s Law, we will ensure that our children are equipped with the information that they need to help another child, or to seek the help they need. I urge my colleagues in the legislature to join the IDC, Erin Merryn, and numerous advocates in fighting to give a voice to every child who may be suffering - with this federal funding, we can make Erin Merryn’s Law a reality in New York,” said Senator Klein.
“State law in New York already requires that we educate our children on abduction - it is high time that we updated it to ensure that we are also educating our children on sexual abuse awareness and prevention. With the Every Student Succeeds Act potentially providing federal funding for this program, New York now has the opportunity to join the 26 other states that have prioritized protecting their children from sexual abuse. I am proud to join Senator Klein, the IDC, and Erin Merryn in calling for the legislature to pass this much-needed legislation,” said Senator Valesky.
As a child, Merryn was abused by both a neighbor and a family member. She stayed silent due to a combination of threats from her abusers, and the lack of knowledge about available help. Now, it is her mission to give a voice to every child who may be suffering.
In 2012, the IDC released a report on the need for Erin Merryn’s law, as well as the economic impact that sexual abuse has on the state. “Erin Merryn’s Law: Breaking the Silence” estimated that in New York, the immediate financial effects caused by child sexual abuse is estimated to cost the State over $211 million, with 10 times as much cost in long term impact. This provision of federal funding can not only cover the expense of program implementation, but also mitigate the immediate and long term financial losses that abuse costs the State.
“With President Obama signing a federal version of Erin's Law that provides funding across the country for the law, there should be no reason New York should not pass it. A law that is now funded to protect kids from abuse - who would be against that? I hope this speeds up the delay in getting Erin's Law passed in New York and adding it to the already 26 states that have passed it,” said Erin Merryn, advocate for Erin Merryn’s law.
“The importance of sexual abuse education and awareness for children who may be at risk can not be overstated. Providing the tools needed in order to prevent and avoid abuse is one of the most critical things we can do for our young students. The legislature must work to pass this legislation this year - with federal funding to be made available from the Every Student Succeeds Act, let's make New York the latest state to ensure that our children are educated on sexual abuse awareness and prevention,” said Senator Diane Savino.
“I applaud President Obama for signing the Every Student Succeeds Act into law, which will strengthen federal funding to educate our nation's students on sexual abuse awareness and prevention. Our children are our future, and we must protect them for those who want to do them harm. Together with my colleagues in the Senate, we passed Erin Merryn's Law that would provide mandatory instruction on preventing child sexual abuse in grades kindergarten through eight. I urge the Assembly to pass this vital piece of legislation this session,” said Senator David Carlucci.
“Every Student Succeeds is proof that, when both parties work together and put policy above partisanship, real people stand to benefit. This new federal legislation has given us the ability to fund programs that will make every child in New York fully aware of sexual abuse and of how to prevent it. Victims need to know that they are not alone, that they have options, and that they can be protected when they feel most vulnerable. I urge my colleagues in the Assembly to pass Erin Merryn’s law before any more children are needlessly abused or left alone with their trauma,” said Senator Tony Avella.
The bill is currently carried in the legislature by Senator Jeff Klein and Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz.
Sepúlveda, Diaz, James, and Palma Secure One-Month Delay of "Draconian" Hike in Common Charges by Parkchester South but Vow "All Options Still Open"
Assemblyman Luis Sepúlveda said Monday that the decision by Parkchester South management to defer the threatened across-the-board 15.19 percent increase in common charges assessed all owner-residents was “a positive but insufficient development.”
“Obviously,” Sepúlveda continued, “the board of directors heard — loudly and clearly — the demand by the community and its representatives for explanations and our determination to do whatever it takes to prevent exorbitant and unsubstantiated increases.”
The deferral was announced in a December 17 “Dear Unit Owner” letter from Board President Abu Shakoor which stated that management “recommended deferring the planned increase to Common Charges for 30 days.” The letter went on to assert that the board of directors was “preparing information for you to address and explain the need for the increase,” followed immediately, nonetheless, with a declaration that the increases will begin in February.
Sepúlveda cautioned, however, that “all options” remain open — referring to the possibility of seeking an injunction or demanding that management agree to the hiring of an independent auditor to impartially review the numbers behind the increase.
It was just one week ago that more than 700 owner-residents turned out at a town hall meeting held by Sepúlveda, State Senator Rev Ruben Diaz, and Council Member Annabel Palma at St. Paul’s Lutheran Evangelical Church to address the common charges increase.
Assemblyman Sepúlveda reiterated his criticism of the way management was handling the issue and sharply rebuked them for insensitivity to the community. “The fact that repairs may be necessary throughout Parkchester South,” said Sepúlveda, “does not justify management’s imposing draconian increases that will be devastating to the elderly, single families, the disabled, and others who are already struggling to keep up.”
Sepúlveda also had lambasted Parkchester South management — Board President Shakoor in particular — for having pledged to attend last week’s town hall meeting but then reneging, with no explanation.
“They were no shows,” Sepúlveda stated. “Apparently they decided that other business was more important than the 15.19 percent increase that they have been attempting to shove down people’s throats.”
"I am deeply concerned about the proposed 15% hike in common charges for residents of Parkchester South Condominiums and the significant impact that it will have on the hard-working families in this community," said Public Advocate Letitia James. "That's why I am committed to working with Assembly Member Sepúlveda, State Senator Diaz, and Council Member Palma on behalf of residents to urge the Management Board of Parkchester South to consider a more reasonable agreement."
“It has been one month since I formerly requested copies of past and proposed budgets from Parkchester South, and I have not received them. In the spirit of transparency, I reiterate my request so we can review the decision-making process of Parkchester’s Management with Parkchester residents, and any members of Management who decide to attend our January Town Hall Meeting. During our December 14th Town Hall Meeting, I requested that New York City Public Advocate Letitia James write a letter to New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman calling for an investigation of Parkchester South Condominium, Inc., and I have yet to receive a copy of that letter,” said Senator Diaz.
“Parkchester South Condominium’s decision to delay the implementation of the proposed maintenance fee increase until February is a tentative step in the right direction. I’m hopeful that the board will use this time to reassess its financial needs, while understanding — and taking into account — the impact this has on its tenants. My colleagues and I will continue to have conversations with management, and the board, until we can facilitate a solution amenable to all parties involved,” stated Council Member Palma.
Assemblyman Sepulveda, Senator Diaz, and Council Member Palma, who represent the Parkchester South Condominium, are planning a town hall meeting for early January to further discuss these rate increases with Parkchester residents.